Box Office: 'K‑Pop Demon Hunters' Returns, 'Black Phone' Leads Halloween Weekend
None of the major studios launched a new wide‑release film over the Halloween weekend, leaving the box‑office slate unusually thin. In that lull, the horror‑thriller Black Phone emerged as the top‑grossing title, while the action‑fantasy sequel K‑Pop Demon Hunters returned to theaters for a second run.
According to early estimates, Black Phone earned roughly $8 million domestically during the three‑day holiday period, outpacing the modest earnings of smaller releases. The film’s steady performance reflects continued audience interest in genre fare that blends suspense with supernatural elements, a niche that has proven resilient despite a broader slowdown in theatrical attendance.
K‑Pop Demon Hunters, which originally opened earlier in the month, was re‑released in select markets to capitalize on a dedicated fan base. The sequel generated an additional $2 million, bolstering its total run and demonstrating the viability of targeted re‑issues for titles with strong niche followings. Industry analysts noted that such strategies help studios maximize revenue from existing inventory without incurring the costs of a fresh marketing push.
The quiet October box‑office can be traced to several factors. Studios have increasingly delayed tentpole releases to the spring or summer windows, seeking to avoid competition with streaming premieres that dominate the fall schedule. Moreover, lingering uncertainties around post‑pandemic attendance patterns have prompted distributors to adopt more conservative release calendars, favoring proven genres over risky new projects.
Looking ahead, the weekend following Halloween is set to see the arrival of a mid‑budget drama and a family‑oriented animated feature, both expected to provide a modest lift to ticket sales. Observers suggest that the market will remain cautious until a slate of high‑profile titles debuts in the early winter, at which point box‑office momentum may regain a more typical pace.
